House in Nakano by HOAA / Hiroyuki Oinuma Architect & Associates

This project is the architect’s own home. The site is adjacent to houses on three sides, except for the road on the north side, and the “Kazari Garden” extends from the large north-facing window, which tends to be dark, around the upper part near the road to escape the shadow of the building, giving the view from the window a sparkle. The spiral flow of the interior is filled with shelves displaying vessels, books, photos, and plants that are dear to the residents, fostering motivation to live a fulfilling life in the future.

Stepping out through the second-floor door into the Kazari Garden and watering the plants sparks conversations with passersby, and children can be seen delighted. “Kazari” (meaning ornament, decoration), including the plants, creates a psychological connection between people, house, and city, and the house behaves as a public entity, open to the city. This work presents new forms and roles for architectural decoration, a theme that is often criticized in modern society.